The Maltese digital economy growing from strength to strength – Minister for the Economy visits SiGMA Europe

Katy Micallef November 14, 2024

SiGMA news

Minister for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, received an official tour of the SiGMA Europe expo at the Mediterranean Maritime Hub (MMH) today. Schembri was welcomed by SiGMA Group founder Eman Pulis and CEO Emily Micallef. The facilities have seen substantial investment, including expansion of its footprint with an additional 15,000 sqm of networking and exhibition space added, and the construction of a 4th shed, new lounges, and a revamped media lounge and registration area.

The event connects key figures from the gaming and tech spheres, with over 1,000 exhibitors and 550 expert speakers contributing to its expo and conference. Key topics have covered emerging markets and new technologies, offering insights into global regulatory landscapes and opportunities to explore crossover benefits from new industries.

***The Hon. Silvio Schembri met with exhibitors at SiGMA Europe.***

The conference also brings technology closer to the gaming sphere, with the AIBC stage dedicated to content that offers a more in-depth look at AI and Quantum computing, the implementation of crypto legislation, including the opportunities and challenges of MiCA regulation, and the growth trajectory of decentralised technologies and their impact on the digital economy.

A renewed interest in Blockchain activities

Speaking to parliament yesterday, Schembri countered claims that Malta’s blockchain sector had failed, saying that there is renewed interest in blockchain based activities and Virtual Financial Assets in Malta. He noted that 16 VFA licenses have already been granted, with an additional 17 applications in progress. Malta was an early mover in the space, becoming one of the first countries to create a regulatory framework for blockchain – a move that sowed the seeds for MiCA regulation. What Malta implemented six years ago will become mandatory for all countries starting January next year. The pioneering DLT legislation was subsequently launched at the Malta Blockchain Summit in 2018 – an event that has since been rebranded as AIBC (Artificial Intelligence & Blockchain Conference).